Not the most experienced here but we just hatched 10 ducklings and 17 chicks together in our incubator this past sunday and monday. We took them out afer one day old and put them under a heat lamp and stuck all their beaks in the food and water when we placed them. So far everyone is well, eating and drinking fine.

ducks can go up to 36 hours with out food or water after the hatch. don't be alarmed if they don't eat right away..after they hatch they rest. Normally they eat on their own. just put food and water in..make sure the water isn't too deep or they'll drown. I dip their beak in the water if they don't drink for a bit..and i put some food in my hand and they usually just eat. Unless they're wood ducks, or mandarin you shouldn't have a problem, the wild breeds are trickier to get to eat and you have to put call ducks with them sometimes to teach them to eat

If you are incubating them then you can remove them from the incubator as soon as they are fluffed up. It is MUCH better to get them eating early even though they can wait longer. Losses in shipping are usually due to lack of food/water. Because they don't have a mom to show them you will need to teach them to eat and drink. I'd probably wait until they are about 24 hours old as momma wouldn't normally come out of the nest with them until thenn and they will have a chance to rest. If they are really active, offer sooner.

Dip their bill in water and make sure that they tilt their head back and swallow. Check on them often to ensure they are drinking.

Make feed very easily available at first. Sprinkled on a paper towel usually works. I find dropping bits in front of them peaks their interest and they will pick up what they see.

If they are under a broody, just put food and water close by and she'll take care of it.